Existing Electrical Systems
Existing Electrical Systems | Smoke Detectors | Electrical | Apison
Living in Apison means enjoying quiet streets and wide-open skies—until an unseen electrical problem turns peace into panic. HEP’s licensed electricians specialize in inspecting and upgrading existing electrical systems so they work in perfect harmony with life-saving smoke detectors, ensuring every room is protected, every wire is sound, and every alarm is ready to pierce the silence when seconds count.
Whether you need a quick sensor replacement, a full rewiring to support interconnected units, or smart-home integration that texts you when you’re away, we do it all with the courtesy and craftsmanship Apison homeowners expect. Let us handle the codes, permits, and preventative maintenance while you enjoy real peace of mind—contact HEP today and keep your lights bright, your outlets safe, and your smoke detectors standing guard 24/7.
FAQs
How many smoke detectors does the Apison residential electrical code require, and where should they be installed?
Current life-safety codes adopted in Apison follow the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC). They call for one smoke detector inside every sleeping room, one outside each sleeping area (e.g., hallway), and at least one on every level of the home, including basements and finished attics. All new or significantly remodeled homes must have the detectors hard-wired, interconnected, and equipped with battery back-up.
What is the difference between hard-wired and battery-only smoke detectors, and which do you recommend?
Battery-only units rely solely on a 9-volt or lithium cell; if the battery dies, the alarm is silent. Hard-wired detectors connect to your home’s 120-volt electrical system, so they have constant power, and they are typically interconnected—if one sounds, they all sound. They also contain a backup battery for outages. Because of greater reliability and code compliance, we recommend hard-wired, interconnected detectors for all Apison homeowners, especially when performing any electrical upgrade.
How often should smoke detectors be tested, have their batteries replaced, and be completely replaced?
• Test each unit monthly using the built-in test button. • Replace standard 9-volt batteries twice a year (at the spring and fall time change). Newer 10-year sealed-lithium models don’t require battery changes but still need monthly testing. • Replace the entire detector every 10 years (or sooner if it fails a test or chirps even after a new battery). Sensors lose sensitivity over time, so an old but quiet detector is not necessarily functional.
Can I replace a smoke detector myself, or should I hire a licensed Apison electrician?
Swapping a battery-only unit of the same model is usually safe for a homeowner. However, anything involving hard-wired or interconnected detectors should be handled by a licensed electrician. We shut off the correct circuit, verify correct neutrals, ensure AFCI/GFCI compatibility, and test the interconnect signal. Professional installation eliminates wiring errors that can disable the entire alarm network or create nuisance tripping.
What types of smoke detectors do you sell and install, and how do I choose the right one?
We carry ionization, photoelectric, and dual-sensor (combination) smoke alarms, as well as combination smoke/CO detectors. • Ionization units respond faster to fast-flaming fires. • Photoelectric units respond faster to smoldering fires and generate fewer false alarms near kitchens or bathrooms. • Dual-sensor models combine both technologies for broader protection and are our default recommendation for most homes. We’ll review your floor plan, cooking habits, and budget to specify the optimal mix, including optional smart Wi-Fi detectors that send alerts to your phone.
What happens during a professional smoke-detector installation or upgrade service call?
1. Site survey – We confirm detector locations meet Apison code and manufacturer spacing rules. 2. Power shut-off – We de-energize the circuit at the panel and verify with a non-contact tester. 3. Wiring – We install new boxes or use existing ones, pull 14/3 or 12/3 (with red interconnect conductor) as required, and staple per NEC spacing. 4. Mounting – New detectors are mounted to the listed base plate, leveled, and torqued to spec. 5. Labelling – Circuit breakers are relabeled for future reference. 6. Testing – Power is restored; we perform functional, interconnect, and decibel tests, then document the date of installation on each unit. Most projects take 1–2 hours for the first detector and 20–30 minutes for each additional unit. We provide fixed-price quotes upfront and a full one-year workmanship warranty.